Featuring stunning natural beauty on pristine islands and beneath the waves, the Ang Thong National Marine Park is not to be missed on a visit to Thailand.
Planning a Trip
This attraction is around 28 km from Koh Samui making it ideal for a day excursion. Properties like Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort even offer boat charters here which adds to the convenience. The best time for such an escapade is from March to October when the weather is at its best and the seas relatively calm.
What to Expect
Featured in Alex Garland’s book, ‘The Beach’, the Ang Thong National Marine Park is an archipelago with 42 islands and thriving marine life. Those visiting on excursions from Chaweng beach resorts can expect to find inspiring limestone cliffs and, on the islands, unspoiled shores, wild jungles, hidden coves, idyllic waterfalls and enchanting lakes.
Things to Do
Active travellers wanting more than just to laze on the beach have plenty to enjoy; this includes underwater discoveries through diving or snorkelling and kayaking amidst breathtaking island backdrops. On land, one can go hiking through lush landscapes and may spot wildlife too be it langurs, otters, sea turtles or pacific reef egrets.
Key Attractions
Koh Wua Talap is where you will find the headquarters of the national park and the well-known Pha Jun Jaras viewpoint and Bua Bok Cave. Also of note are Mother Island or Ko Mae Ko with its amazing beach and Emerald Lake as well as Tripod Island (Koh Sam Sao) that has a lovely reef and Koh Paluay with its sea gipsy community.
